Jessie Taylor
Taper candles are among the oldest types of candles, with the earliest forms created by ancient Romans and Egyptians using beeswax and tallow. They are tall, slender, and elegant, and have a timeless look that can fit any interior. Taper candles come in a variety of heights, ranging from 6 to 20 inches, with the most common length being 12 inches. They also come in different shapes and colours, making them versatile for various occasions and seasons. When choosing taper candles, it is important to select those made from dense, high-quality wax to minimise dripping and ensure safety. To prevent leaning and dripping, the candles should be placed straight in their holders at a 90-degree angle on a level surface. If the candle is too loose or big for the holder, there are several hacks to ensure a snug fit, such as using tin foil, masking tape, or warming the bottom of the candle to mould it to the holder.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle type | Taper candles |
| Candle composition | Dense, high-quality wax |
| Candle dimensions | Range from 6 to over 20 inches tall; most common length is 12 inches |
| Burn time | Approximately 10-12 hours for a 12-inch candle |
| Colour | Classic ivory or seasonal shades |
| Scent | Typically unscented |
| Candle holder | Required for support; standard diameter of 7/8" at the base |
| Candle stability | Straighten bent candles with warm water or a lighter; use candle snugglers, wax buttons, or household items like foil/tape to secure |
| Wax dripping | Minimised by using high-quality dense wax and ensuring a straight, level placement |
| Safety | Avoid placing near flammable materials or drafty areas |
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What You'll Learn
How to make taper candles stand straight in a holder
Taper candles can be a beautiful addition to any tablescape, but they can be frustrating when they don't stand straight in their holders. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect, elegant look:
Check for Drafts
First, ensure that the candle is not leaning due to a draft in the room. Check for any air currents and, if possible, eliminate the draft or move the candle to a different location.
Adjust the Candle Holder
If the candle holder itself is crooked, try to straighten it out. For metal holders, you can gently bend the arms to make them straight. For sturdier or one-piece holders, place a folded piece of paper or a small amount of sticky tack or putty under the base to level it.
Modify the Candle Base
If the candle is too thin for the holder, you can use various methods to build up the base and create a snug fit:
- Use a candle snugger, which is a piece of foam cut into a circle. Place it at the top of the holder, then press the candle down into the hole. Trim any excess foam that sticks out.
- Drip melted wax from another candle into the base of the holder to create a new "base" for the taper.
- Warm the bottom of the taper candle with a lighter to make it malleable, then mould it to the shape of the holder.
- Shave some of the wax off the base of the candle with a sharp knife or razor blade until it fits snugly into the holder.
Use Adhesives
If the candle is too loose in the holder, you can use adhesives to create a secure fit:
- Apply a pea-sized portion of candle adhesive, such as Stick-Um, to the candle base and twist it into the holder.
- Wrap a rubber band around the base of the candle for added friction.
- Use a small amount of tacky putty or museum wax on the candle's base to create a strong bond with the holder.
With these tips, your taper candles will stand tall and elegant, enhancing the beauty of your setting. Remember always to handle candles with care and never leave them unattended.
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How to prevent wax from dripping
Taper candles are elegant and timeless, but they can be prone to dripping. To prevent wax from dripping, there are several measures you can take. Firstly, ensure that your candle is completely vertical and straight in its holder. Even high-quality candles will drip if they are not straight, as gravity will cause the wax to spill over the side. To secure your taper candles, you can use wax buttons, which are disks of soft wax that will firmly fasten the candles to their holders. Alternatively, you can warm the bottom of the taper candle with a lighter to make it malleable and then mould it to the shape of the holder.
Another factor that can cause dripping is the length of the wick. If the wick is too long or too short, it can lead to uneven burning and dripping. The ideal length for a candlestick wick is about half an inch. Be careful not to trim the wick too short, as this can cause a small flame that cannot consume the melting wax fast enough, resulting in wax spilling over the edge. If you notice carbon buildup, a black clump of soot on the wick, it may be necessary to trim the wick.
Additionally, drafts and air movement can contribute to dripping. Ensure that your candles are not exposed to drafts, as this can affect the burning process and cause dripping. If your candle has already started dripping due to air movement or wick length, you can try to correct it by extinguishing the candle and creating a small dam with the spilled wax to block the channel. Then, relight the candle and watch it carefully, extinguishing it if it looks like it will drip again.
Finally, the quality of the wax itself plays a significant role in dripping. The denser and higher-quality the wax, the less likely it is to drip. When choosing taper candles, opt for those made from dense, high-quality wax to minimise dripping and enjoy a cleaner burning experience.
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How to choose the right candle height
Taper candles are a timeless and elegant addition to any home, and choosing the right candle height is essential for both style and safety. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect candle height for your needs:
Consider the Dimensions of Your Space:
The height of your taper candles should be chosen based on the size of the room and where you plan to place them. For example, in a colonial-style room with low ceilings, shorter candles may be more appropriate for safety and aesthetic reasons. Taller candles can be dramatic and striking, but they might not fit well in a small space or under a low ceiling.
Think About Proportion:
Taper candles come in various heights, typically ranging from 6 to 20 inches, with 12 inches being the most common length. Consider the proportion of the candles to the size of your table, mantel, or other surfaces where they will be displayed. You want the candles to enhance the space, not overwhelm it.
Burn Time and Usage:
The height of your taper candles will directly impact their burn time. Generally, a 12-inch candle will have a burn time of approximately 10 to 12 hours. If you plan to use the candles for multiple occasions or events, choose a height that aligns with your intended usage. For example, shorter candles may be ideal for a romantic dinner for two, while taller candles can make a statement at a holiday gathering.
Safety Considerations:
When choosing taller taper candles, always prioritise safety. Ensure that the candles are placed on a level surface and secured in stable candle holders to prevent them from falling over. The height of the candles should be such that they are not at risk of coming into contact with flammable objects or surfaces, and there is enough clearance for the flame.
Personal Preference:
Ultimately, the right candle height is also about your personal taste. Some people prefer the classic, versatile look of 12-inch taper candles, while others may enjoy the unique charm of shorter or taller options. Choose a height that you find visually appealing and suits your style.
By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect taper candle height to create a stylish, safe, and enjoyable atmosphere in your home.
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How to use vintage candlesticks
Taper candles are tall, slender, and elegant, and they can fit into any interior aesthetic. They have been used as a source of illumination since 3000 BC. Vintage candlesticks are a great way to elevate your dining experience or coffee table, but they can be tricky to use. Here are some tips to help you use vintage candlesticks effectively:
Choose the Right Wax
The key to creating the best taper candles is to use a dense, high-quality wax. The candle's quality is indicated by the amount of wax drip it produces. The more drip, the looser the wax, and the messier the candle. Choose a dense wax to ensure your taper candles burn cleanly and safely.
Stabilize with a Holder
Taper candles require a candlestick holder for stabilization. Vintage candlesticks may have varying diameters, so ensure your taper candle fits securely in the holder. If the candle is too small, it may wobble and fall out, while an oversized candle will be prone to falling out as well.
Straighten Crooked Candles
Over time, taper candles may bend due to storage or shipping. To straighten them, use lukewarm tap water to warm up the wax at the bent area. Gently bend the candle back to its proper shape, then run cold water over it to harden the wax.
Secure the Candle in the Holder
To prevent your taper candles from falling over, try these hacks:
- Use a product like Stick-um or putty: These soft, tacky waxes act like glue and can secure the candle in the holder.
- Melt the bottom of the candle with a lighter: Hold the candle bottom over a flame for 20-30 seconds, then insert it into the holder and apply pressure to mould the wax to the holder's shape.
- Use a Taper Tipper: This tool, made from a mixture of metals, helps whittle down the base of the candle for a tighter fit.
- Try aluminium foil or plastic wrap: Cut thin strips and wrap them around the candle's base before placing it in the holder.
- Use a Candle Snugger: This is a piece of foam cut into a circle that fills the extra space between the candle and the holder.
Safety Precautions
When using taper candles, always take safety precautions:
- Avoid placing candles near flammable objects such as curtains or drapes.
- Never leave burning candles unattended.
- Always stay in the room with a burning candle and extinguish it before leaving.
By following these tips, you can safely and effectively use vintage candlesticks with taper candles to create a stylish and elegant atmosphere.
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How to burn the last bit of a taper candle
Taper candles are among the oldest forms of illumination, dating back to 3000 BC. They are elegant and timeless, and their tall, slender shape makes them a stylish addition to any home.
When your taper candle is almost burnt out, you can follow these steps to burn the last bit:
Choosing the Right Holder
Select a sturdy and heat-resistant candle holder that prevents the candle from tipping over. The holder should be made of materials like metal, glass, or ceramic, which can withstand the heat. Ensure that the taper candle fits the dimensions of the holder.
Preparing the Candle
Trim the wick of the taper candle to approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) before lighting it again. This promotes a controlled and even burn, minimizing soot and smoke.
Using Fire Starters
If your taper candle is very short, you can use the last bit by making fire starters. Place the candle stub in a cardboard egg carton, stuff dryer lint around it, and you've got yourself a perfect fire starter!
Melting the Bottom
For very short candles that don't need a holder anymore, you can melt the bottom to flatten them. Then, place them on a fire-resistant plate and burn them like a votive candle.
Warming the Bottom
If your candle doesn't fit your vintage candle holder, you can warm the bottom with a lighter to make it malleable. Hold the bottom directly over the flame for 20-30 seconds and then place it into the holder, using pressure to mould the wax to the shape of the holder.
By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently burn the last bit of your taper candle, maximizing its use and enjoyment.
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Frequently asked questions
Warm the bottom of the taper candle to make it malleable enough to mould to the shape of the holder. Hold the bottom of a taper candle directly over a lighter flame for 20-30 seconds, rotate the candle, then pop it into the holder. You can also use tin foil, masking tape, or candle snugglers to tighten the fit of a taper.
You can melt the bottom of the taper candle to flatten it, then stick it onto a fire-resistant plate and burn it like a votive candle. Alternatively, you can save the remaining wax and remelt it to make a new candle or wax melts.
The key to creating the best taper candles is to use a dense, high-quality wax to minimise dripping.
